Those property owners will now become part of unincorporated Clackamas County.

A lawsuit filed by the city claims that House Bill 4029 violates the Oregon Constitution by taking away the city’s power to determine its own boundaries and grants the right to de-annex to only some residents. The city also names Gov. John Kitzhaber, Clackamas County and Metro in the suit.

Burton said she thinks the city is unlikely to win its lawsuit and that the city attorneys did not prove their case that allowing the de-annexations to continue will create a mess until the lawsuit is decided.

I asked some property owners who get to leave the city tonight, and are scheduled for withdrawal hearings in the next few weeks to weigh in on the decision:

Hank Brown, who is the first to leave the city: "A win for the people! It’s nice to know that rational minds prevailed and that justice is served. It’s a shame the city had to go to this extent and continue to waste taxpayer funds. We will continue to support our fellow citizens."

Jeff Olson, who will also de-annex at 12:01 a.m. Saturday: "This is jubilation. I hope that the rest of the citizens of Damascus can prevail too and do what needs to be done. I will be there to support them."

Jerry Schofield: "It’s a victory for the people. It shows the city of Damascus that the people have had enough."

Jim Syring, a leader and organizer for the secession movement: "This day will be remembered as the day the citizens of Damascus were liberated! The Citizens For De-Annexation Group will continue to help our friends and neighbors with the de-annexation process".

Sharon Huffman: "I think this is a victory for the Damascus Community and vindication as our rights as citizens. This city is crumbling."

Steve Deters: "Finally, someone that’s rational and understands the plight of the people of Damascus. The hearings will go forward and let our people go."

Bruce Kayzer: "It’s about time and I hope the City Council considers what they have done. The citizens of Damascus are upset."

Jerry Hoemburg: "Justice was served! We have gotten our rights back now to do what we choose to do. Our tax dollars will be better utilized out of Damascus."